Animal print sweater – Dixie DIY freebie pattern

When I saw Dixie DIY's new freebie last week – the Hot Cocoa Sweater – I instantly knew it was for me. I also just happened to have the perfect double knit (animal print of course!) in my stash, but the only downside is that Dixie's pattern is only available in one size / her size at the moment. Although I'm bigger in the chest than the lovely Dixie, I'm probably slightly narrower in the shoulders, so I decided to go for it and hope for the best. I'm so glad I did, I've definitely got myself a keeper!

I love the raglan sleeves and asymmetrical hemline and it's perfectly snug for this colder weather. The best things about this make are that it was a stash-buster and it was simple and quick enough to whip up whilst my sewing room is undergoing major surgery.

This pattern has clearly written instructions and is deliciously simple to make, with just four pieces. The cuffs and neckband are cleverly assembled and attached just like Sewaholic's Renfrew, so you get a really neat finish. The hem is just turned up once and stitched which reduces bulk - you don't have to worry because knits don't fray. The only change I made was to add 3 inches to the front and back length, as I wanted a bit more coverage for my 'junk'...hehe! I kept everything else the same.

No way!!! Where did you get yours from then? I remember thinking how much I loved your Renfrew fabric...could it be that I went out months later and subconsciously copied you? Probably! You'll be able to tell me if it is exactly the same tomorrow ;o)

Great new top Marie, love how comfy raglan sleeves can be - maybe I'll be as lucky as you and find a suitable knit at the market at your meet up today :) Gonna download this pattern when I get home tonight thanks for sharing the link!

This looks great! I just bought some sweater knit fabric I'm planning to do this with. I love that it looks so cozy and I bet people would never guess it's handmade. It looks very fashionable, especially with the asymmetrical hem.

Adorable! This looks so cute on you! And I LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE the leopard print-- I want one just like this! I just made this top, too, but mine didn't turn out very well (totally my fault, not Dixie's)... I'm afraid to show you guys!

Thanks so much Sonja! If I had any confidence in my grading down skills, I'd gladly make one for you ;o) Don't be afraid to show us yours, I've shown my failed projects before and people's comments always cheer me up loads ;o)